This year’s flu season will be unlike any we’ve had in recent years. Given the backdrop of Covid-19 (coronavirus), it will be even more important to get your flu shot (flu vaccine) as soon as possible. Here is what you need to know about this year’s flu season:
1. Get your flu shot as soon as possible
Flu season starts around late fall (September) which is when most flu vaccines become available. Although flu season lasts for approximately 14 weeks, the sooner you get your shot, the better. Contact your local 24-hour emergency room to see when you can book a flu shot for yourself and your family.
2. Symptoms of flu to look out for
The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the flu virus. The most common symptoms of the flu are
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Tiredness
- Aches all over the body
Unfortunately, many of these symptoms also mimic those seen with Covid-19. This can make it challenging for doctors to figure out whether you have the flu or Covid-19. But as a patient, the most important thing to pay attention to is your symptoms. For example, regardless of the diagnosis you should always seek medical help if you have urgent or life-threatening symptoms.
3. When to get emergency help
Go to the nearest 24-hour emergency room or call 911 if you have one or more of these symptoms.
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
4. Diagnosis and treatment of the flu
Most adults who develop the flu will have mild to moderate symptoms that can be managed at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications such as aspirin or tylenol.
Those with more severe symptoms may need to go to their local emergency room for laboratory diagnosis or more advanced treatment options.
5. Practice good health hygiene
The flu is highly contagious. The best way to keep yourself and your loved ones safe from contracting the flu is to continue practicing the following:
- Wash hands frequently with soap & water or use rubbing alcohol.
- Stay at home until your symptoms have resolved.
- Distance yourself from others where possible.
- Cough into your elbow.
6. Covid-19 and the flu
Getting the flu vaccine will reduce your risk of catching the flu virus. Unfortunately, it will not reduce your risk of catching Covid-19. Flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization, and death. Furthermore, keeping the flu at bay gives you one less illness to worry about during an already stressful time.
If you’re unsure whether you have Covid-19 or the flu, contact your local 24-hour emergency room for details about testing criteria and testing locations. As usual, it is best to stay at home, self-isolate and follow good health hygiene until symptoms clear.
Emergency in Houston?
Life Savers 24 Hour Emergency Room is equipped to handle life threatening conditions quickly. Your emergency or concern is our priority! Life Savers 24 Hour Emergency Room is your Houston ER for immediate definite care. Do not hesitate to call us today or stop by one of our houston emergency room locations: Willowbrook ER, Heights ER, or Summerwood ER.